I started organizing at a very young age. Growing up in San Jose, California, I was constantly rearranging the small bedroom she shared with my twin sister Dawn. When I wanted to be alone, I would lock myself in the bathroom and tackle the clutter under the bathroom sink. Frustrated when I couldn’t find something, I’d reorganize the kitchen cabinets, clean out the refrigerator and even organize the garage. I learned early on that to protect my mental health, everything needed to be “neatly arranged.”

My sister and I grew up performing in musical theater, and in 1985, I graduated magna cum laude from San Jose State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, a concentration in Management, and a minor in Theater Arts. My early career in arts management in San Jose gave me experience in producing shows, special events, fundraisers, and festivals. I later worked in San Francisco, San Jose, New York City, and Los Angeles in marketing and sales in a variety of industries. I have lived in Los Angeles since 1995 and can add computer teacher, Jewish religious school teacher, closet designer, and activities assistant to my resume.